Train Derails, Load Hits S. Calif. Homes

Published 8:00 pm, Thursday, June 19, 2003

A freight train derailed, sending its load of lumber crashing into trackside homes Friday, authorities said. At least a dozen people were injured, and rescuers were searching the wreckage for others possibly trapped.

The wreck left freight cars in a pile on the track in Commerce, a largely industrial community east of Los Angeles.

Pieces of lumber were spread over a wide area, including on top of some buildings.

Los Angeles County Fire Capt. Mark Savage said the train was carrying lumber only and had no hazardous materials.

One person had moderate injuries and 11 people were being treated for minor injuries, Savage said.